I think it's pretty safe to say that nobody is ever happy when they're sick. But I have to say, being sick at college truly takes the cake. When I'm at home my mom gives me the right medicine, tucks me into bed, makes me soup, and makes sure I stay hydrated. She always knows what to do and how to make me feel better...or at least a little bit better. There's something comforting about being home with your family in your own room when you're feeling at your lowest.

Here at school...it's a little different. Sure, I have roommates to help take care of me, but its not quite the same. We debate which medicine actually helps with fevers, and unfortunately, when one of us gets sick, usually we all do. Next thing you know, there's no one left to play the "mom" as we all lay on the futon coughing, shivering, and asking if anyone is getting up for water so we don't have to move.

College is usually a place where kids don't spend too much time missing home. But when you're sick...the game has completely changed. Every waking minute all you want is to be at home in your own bed, with your dog snuggled up to keep you warm, and your parents there to make it all better. I'm not sure why we thought we were ready to go out into the world on our own, because right now I really wish I wasn't at college. I wish I wasn't sick. I wish my mom was here. I wish she could come sleep on my futon with me. But most of all, I really just wish I could go home for a week to get away from everyone else who's sick and feel better.

Unfortunately, none of this is going to be a reality. With finals coming up and projects due I can't afford to just leave home and take a break. Any college students who have ever been sick away from home understand this feeling. The homesickness on top of the real sickness. We've all been there, at one time or another.

So to sum this up, thank you mom for always taking care of me when I'm home with you. If you find a chance, please find a way to express mail me some Ramen next me to check on me and help me whenever I'm unsure if I should take DayQuil or Advil. Hopefully the next time I get sick, I'm not at school, but back home again with y'all.